Abstract

Mental health, family functioning, effects on employment and relationships, coping style, and perceptions of prognosis were assessed in 93 mothers and 78 fathers of children with a life-threatening non-malignant condition. Results indicated high levels of psychological distress, significant effects upon employment and relationships, and a family environment characterised by low expressiveness, cohesion, and high conflict. Differences between mothers and fathers were found on a number of variables. Length of time since diagnosis, level of family cohesion, and sex of parent significantly predicted parental mental health.